The Details Considered in Bar Interior Design
The interior design of a bar plays a crucial role in shaping its identity and influencing the experience of its patrons–ultimately determining its success. At GRECODECO, we believe a thoughtfully designed bar should not only enhance the ambiance but align with its menu and mission, creating a unique environment that brings people together for a drink time and again.
Last year, our team had the pleasure of designing a classic neighborhood bar on the iconic Sunset Strip in Los Angeles called Bar Next Door. In today’s article, we’re diving into our design decisions behind this project and how we played a hand in curating the bar’s laidback, vibey customer experience.
Project Overview: Bar Next Door
Bar Next Door is located in a 1930s streamline-modern building that–get this!–once housed Marilyn Monroe’s first talent agent. Now, this historic site is a retro bar owned by Lawrence Longo and was designed to complement the area’s vibrant drinking scene. Bar Next Door stands out amid the bustling LA nightlife as an approachable watering hole with a straightforward menu of (mostly) classic cocktails.
GRECODECO was brought on to design the interiors of this exciting project and played a pivotal role in helping Bar Next Door achieve the comfortable-cool atmosphere that feels true to its name.
Design That Pairs with the Drink Menu
The design of Bar Next Door was carefully crafted to complement its cocktail menu, which features timeless classics like negronis, manhattans, and mules. To align this classic drink menu with a classic ambiance, we chose a variety of rich chocolate brown tones throughout the monochromatic space. We also incorporated textures like rustic leather and dark wood to ensure the bar still felt warm and inviting–and reminiscent of bars from back in the day. At the same time, we updated the overall look with colorful pop art (featuring Marilyn Monroe, of course), abstract hanging light fixtures, and mirror details embedded within the sleekly-polished bar.
All of these colors and textures worked together to create a stunning backdrop for patrons and their drinks alike, providing plenty of photo opportunities and making for a memorable drinking experience. Whether guests are catching up with friends, meeting a date, or winding down after a long day, Bar Next Door provides them with an immersive experience that feels cohesive and comfortable.
The Devil is in the Details
At GRECODECO, we believe that the success of any design lies in the details. When we designed Bar Next Door, every element—from lighting to seating arrangements—was thoughtfully considered to enhance the customer experience. The dim lighting creates an intimate setting, while the stylish and comfortable leather upholstery encourages guests to linger through the night.
We also paid close attention to how long patrons would spend in their seats. By carefully selecting bar seats and booths that balance comfort and practicality, we created a space where guests could relax without feeling rushed–and where they might as well order another round! This kind of detail-oriented design sets GRECODECO apart, since every choice impacts the patrons’ experience and the overall success of a space.
Learn More About GRECODECO
Founded by Adam Greco in 2017, we are a Manhattan-based firm that designs thoughtfully layered commercial and residential spaces all over the world. Our passionate team of designers specializes in research-heavy historic projects that capture and celebrate the essence of various iconic time periods, with the goal of guiding guests through an elegant and emotional journey of the senses.
Interested in learning more about how GRECODECO can transform your commercial space through an amalgam of rich colors and custom features, all strategically designed to attract your target clientele and reach your goals? Please don’t hesitate to inquire with us.